Front Reinforcement Plate...in carbon fiber!

[amg6975]

I can confirm from testing that the internal aero around/behind the oil cooler makes a huge difference so keeping the flap is a really good idea.

[bmwfst1]

awesome work

[omgzirra_exe]

Originally Posted by bigjae1976

Now, I won’t call it proprietary but it took about 5 different f-ups to be able to make a mold from the stock part…which is pressed and flocked cardboard.

because these pieces tend to flex easily..

What I typically do is use aluminum plumber's tape to cover the piece I'm trying to copy, then follow up with a few FRP layers (2 to 3 suffice). While applying the FRP layers, I use a roller to air out any bubbles. From there, you can simply pop it off thanks to the aluminum plumber's tape and refine the mold by adding a smaller layer of epoxy resin to create the hardened mold layer. This way, the mold doesn't have much deformity and retains all the sharp angles.

even using paper mache works, as long as its done over the aluminum tape.

[bigjae1976]

Originally Posted by omgzirra_exe

because these pieces tend to flex easily..

What I typically do is use aluminum plumber's tape to cover the piece I'm trying to copy, then follow up with a few FRP layers (2 to 3 suffice). While applying the FRP layers, I use a roller to air out any bubbles. From there, you can simply pop it off thanks to the aluminum plumber's tape and refine the mold by adding a smaller layer of epoxy resin to create the hardened mold layer. This way, the mold doesn't have much deformity and retains all the sharp angles.

even using paper mache works, as long as its done over the aluminum tape.

The issue is the dimensional changes, have to be careful with knowing the thickness being added and being uniform across the part.

[Richbot]

I wonder if you could get most of the aero bang of the gurney with a strip of tall rubber (sacrificial, replaceable) weather strip/edge guard/etc. With good prep the HD double-sided tapes will stand up in wet environments - and a lot of them are molded/extruded with an element to capture an edge and stand off from it, like a sheetmetal door opening edge etc.

racecars have a long and proud history of using the McMaster Carr catalog to go faster lol

[bigjae1976]

Originally Posted by Richbot

I wonder if you could get most of the aero bang of the gurney with a strip of tall rubber (sacrificial, replaceable) weather strip/edge guard/etc. With good prep the HD double-sided tapes will stand up in wet environments - and a lot of them are molded/extruded with an element to capture an edge and stand off from it, like a sheetmetal door opening edge etc.

racecars have a long and proud history of using the McMaster Carr catalog to go faster lol

Hmmm…that sounds like a great idea. Let me see what I can find.

[roastbeef]

https://www.mcmaster.com/product/10465A61


Maybe something like this can be repurposed.
Seems like instead of including it in the mould, we could get a piece of aluminum vent and drilled for rivets or small bolts.

[bigjae1976]

Originally Posted by roastbeef

https://www.mcmaster.com/product/10465A61


Maybe something like this can be repurposed.
Seems like instead of including it in the mould, we could get a piece of aluminum vent and drilled for rivets or small bolts.

There is a slightly curved profile on the horizontal plane. I probably need to stop being a little b!tch and make it from carbon fiber 🤣

I have two possibilities on how to do it. Just need to figure out the best way.

[roastbeef]

Originally Posted by bigjae1976

There is a slightly curved profile on the horizontal plane. I probably need to stop being a little b!tch and make it from carbon fiber 🤣

I have two possibilities on how to do it. Just need to figure out the best way.

https://www.mcmaster.com/products/do...mount-seals-7/

check that one out .4" tall. rivet it in with a washer... bingo. cheap and flexible.

[bigjae1976]

Crappy engine covers V1 test fit. It fits!

Still need to do the vent. Had a minor mold issue so I’m waiting for more gel coat.

It’s more difficult to install because it’s stiffer. Had to wrestle with the wheel well liners a bit. And no bowden cables!

And the white reside is mold wax.

[spxxx]

I was tagged by the manufacturer of these on IG for some reason...

Looks like they've made their way from you > EuroShadey > Legit EU manufacturer

[bigjae1976]

Originally Posted by spxxx

I was tagged by the manufacturer of these on IG for some reason...

Looks like they've made their way from you > EuroShadey > Legit EU manufacturer

I’m on fire! 🤣

I’d be surprised if those plates are anywhere close to $1000. I certainly wouldn’t even consider it worthwhile paying over $1k. I consider my pricing borderline not worth it and I’m around $750. But I’m curious to see where I’m at compared to them.

EDIT: Has them listed for $900. Not bad!

Kind of surprised when I see people selling roofs for $1800. The OE process is a 5 layer stack plus a core from what I can see. I know it’s 6 layers and the underside is a spread tow (expensive!). I could be wrong but the aftermarket is likely using a 2 layer with a thick core in between, maybe a cosmetic top layer. Nothing wrong with it except the materials to make the roof like that are less than $250. A 5 layer stack is triple that.

I learned something today…so I got $200 and some excellent data points. As far as I look at it…I got a great deal!

[spxxx]

Originally Posted by bigjae1976

I’m on fire! 🤣

I’d be surprised if those plates are anywhere close to $1000. I certainly wouldn’t even consider it worthwhile paying over $1k. I consider my pricing borderline not worth it and I’m around $750. But I’m curious to see where I’m at compared to them.

He mentioned around $800 which is lower than I expected. Still sucks to see your design used for production uses.

[bipp]

Originally Posted by spxxx

I was tagged by the manufacturer of these on IG for some reason...

Looks like they've made their way from you > EuroShadey > Legit EU manufacturer

this is the shady part imo...

After getting my hands on a used, homemade replica of an M3 V8's front subframe brace, upon reviewing the unit I had purchased with Silvano, he highly dis-recommanded I fit this piece to my V8. Scroll down.

not sure why he made it sound like a massive feat to obtain someone's work and then proceeds to dump on it

[omgzirra_exe]

Originally Posted by bipp

this is the shady part imo...



not sure why he made it sound like a massive feat to obtain someone's work and then proceeds to dump on it

some ones going to eventually call him out on the facebook.

i usually do when i see his post lol

[spxxx]

Originally Posted by omgzirra_exe

some ones going to eventually call him out on the facebook.

i usually do when i see his post lol

Yeah I have a good diff builder and import racing LSDs for local friends (nothing fancy, just custom ZF E39 M5 units machined with custom ramp angles etc etc) and said dirtbag messaged me on Instagram asking me to connect him to the builder directly... Haha hard no.

[bipp]

Originally Posted by spxxx

Yeah I have a good diff builder and import racing LSDs for local friends (nothing fancy, just custom ZF E39 M5 units machined with custom ramp angles etc etc) and said dirtbag messaged me on Instagram asking me to connect him to the builder directly... Haha hard no.

lowkey unfortunate that some of the stuff he is selling actually seems interesting, but i have zero interest in supporting him as an individual / vendor

[omgzirra_exe]

Originally Posted by spxxx

Yeah I have a good diff builder and import racing LSDs for local friends (nothing fancy, just custom ZF E39 M5 units machined with custom ramp angles etc etc) and said dirtbag messaged me on Instagram asking me to connect him to the builder directly... Haha hard no.

honestly, it's not even hard to find that guy. he just wants a good reference lmao.

unfortunately, there are people who don't see pass his BS.

majority of the stuff can be bought from the supplier directly for the same if not better price than what he listed behind his gate kept website. (need account to see price)

[bigjae1976]

Originally Posted by omgzirra_exe

honestly, it's not even hard to find that guy. he just wants a good reference lmao.

unfortunately, there are people who don't see pass his BS.

While I love doing this composite stuff this is what has turned me off from starting my own thing. It’s hard to find honest people to do business with when it comes to automotive. Ego’s, selfishness, and the social media influencer lifestyle makes me want to focking gag. Certain people have contacted me about doing group buys and crap like that. It’s interesting because of the money would be good but again, social media influencers are so full of sh1t. The common thread is they want free stuff. I just quote them the a$$hole price and they go away.

I’ve thought about doing something outside of automotive but it’s not really my passion. I do work with one vendor who I am comfortable with so far. It’s been an arms length kind of thing. He needs something, I make it. It supports the habit of making parts for my cars. Then if someone wants something I make then I’ll try to sell it for a reasonable price. I like it like that.

[omgzirra_exe]

Originally Posted by bigjae1976

While I love doing this composite stuff this is what has turned me off from starting my own thing. It’s hard to find honest people to do business with when it comes to automotive. Ego’s, selfishness, and the social media influencer lifestyle makes me want to focking gag. Certain people have contacted me about doing group buys and crap like that. It’s interesting because of the money would be good but again, social media influencers are so full of sh1t. The common thread is they want free stuff. I just quote them the a$$hole price and they go away.

I’ve thought about doing something outside of automotive but it’s not really my passion. I do work with one vendor who I am comfortable with so far. It’s been an arms length kind of thing. He needs something, I make it. It supports the habit of making parts for my cars. Then if someone wants something I make then I’ll try to sell it for a reasonable price. I like it like that.

I've worked in the auto industry for quite some time, starting with manufacturing "aero" look parts and then moving on to manufacturing wheels. Despite my experience, I still feel inexperienced compared to others in the field.

However, I've come to realize that certain demographics of auto enthusiasts can be quite annoying. There's the person looking for the holy trinity: good, fast, and cheap. Then there's the dreamer with an unlimited budget. And of course, there's the one who just wastes your time.

In my perspective, patience is key in this field, as it is in any other. But when it starts to make my hobby feel like a burden, it's no longer something I want to pursue. I'm just grateful to be able to keep in touch with the few who share the same vision and passion as I do.

[gh0stE92M3]

Originally Posted by bigjae1976

I’m on fire! 🤣

I’d be surprised if those plates are anywhere close to $1000. I certainly wouldn’t even consider it worthwhile paying over $1k. I consider my pricing borderline not worth it and I’m around $750. But I’m curious to see where I’m at compared to them.

EDIT: Has them listed for $900. Not bad!

Kind of surprised when I see people selling roofs for $1800. The OE process is a 5 layer stack plus a core from what I can see. I know it’s 6 layers and the underside is a spread tow (expensive!). I could be wrong but the aftermarket is likely using a 2 layer with a thick core in between, maybe a cosmetic top layer. Nothing wrong with it except the materials to make the roof like that are less than $250. A 5 layer stack is triple that.

I learned something today…so I got $200 and some excellent data points. As far as I look at it…I got a great deal!

so what youre saying is you can make a CF roof that's better than what's currently out there? I'm sure there would be a lot of people interested in that. Hows the undertray going?

[jmeenach]

Originally Posted by DRLane

So he buys your part to have it made by someone else. My disdain for this guy grows by the day.

Woah - I knew Matt had been banned, but I wasn't sure why. I was considering buying a couple parts from him, but I feel like the more I read about him the more I don't want to support his business...